The Chief of the Danish Army, Peter Boysen, embodies a mature and empathetic masculinity that is deeply needed in today’s world. This encounter challenged the author’s preconceived notions about the military and revealed a longing for qualities like responsibility, direction, and calm, which are often overshadowed by destructive masculine energy.

The author, who grew up in a left-wing family with a critical view of the military, expected to find authority and distance in the Chief of the Army. Instead, she was met with warmth, honesty, and a sense of peace that resonated deeply. This experience prompted her to reflect on the qualities of mature masculinity and its importance in society.

The author connects this experience to her own upbringing and the longing for a type of masculinity that provides a sense of safety and security. She argues that while society has rightfully rebelled against patriarchal structures and celebrated vulnerability, the mature, anchored, and empathetic aspects of masculinity have been forgotten.

She contrasts this mature masculinity with the destructive masculine energy seen in figures like Trump and Putin. The Chief of the Army, on the other hand, represents a calm authority, someone who can be leaned on, and someone who stands his ground without dominating.

The author emphasizes that mature masculinity is not about biology or gender but about embracing qualities like responsibility, direction, and calm. It’s about taking responsibility without demanding recognition, standing firm without dominating, and listening before speaking.

She acknowledges that it’s not always easy to embody these qualities and that everyone needs a foundation to lean on at times. Even the Chief of the Army reflects and seeks counsel when he feels nervous.

The author notes that the Chief of the Army’s values and commitment to protecting the kingdom and its values were evident. He did not seek attention or recognition, but rather bore the responsibility with humility.

This experience challenged the author’s prejudices against the military and made her realize that she had strong preconceptions about something she had never experienced firsthand. While she remains committed to community and dialogue as the primary means of improving the world, she was struck by the warmth and sense of safety she found in an institution built on power.

The author concludes by reflecting on the importance of heroism, not as something self-assertive, but as the courage to take responsibility and stand still when things get difficult. She expresses hope that society can once again embrace this type of heroism and find a balance between strength and humility.